There is something timeless about Homecoming. 

It is more than a football game, a dance, or a parade; it is a chance for our entire Roanoke Rapids Graded School District family to come together, celebrate who we are, and create memories that will last for years. 

The week of September 15–19, 2025, all of our school campuses overflowed with energy, color, tradition, and pride. From our youngest learners to our high school seniors and alumni, the spirit of the Yellow Jackets was alive and buzzing.

High School Spirit Week: A Living Rainbow of Energy

Our high schools set the tone early with Homecoming Spirit Week 2025. Each day brought its own burst of creativity and laughter:

Monday: Carnival Kaleidoscope turned the halls into a vibrant parade of color, with each grade level and our staff showing off their assigned hues. Seniors gleamed in white, juniors dazzled in blue, sophomores popped in red, freshmen glowed in green, and staff brought the bold energy of orange.

Tuesday: Tropical Tuesday made it feel like summer never ended. Students and staff strolled the halls in leis, flip-flops, floral shirts, and plenty of shades.

Wednesday: Birds of a Feather brought pairs and groups together in twinning outfits, proving that spirit is even better when shared.

Thursday: Blend In or Stand Out offered a playful choice—go camo and disappear into the crowd or shine in bold carnival colors and festive prints.

Friday: HOCO Rio! wrapped up the week in black and gold. Glitter, gems, and Yellow Jacket gear filled the building with the unmistakable power of our school spirit. It was a reminder that tradition, creativity, and togetherness fuel the heartbeat of our district.

No Homecoming week would be complete without the annual Pep Rally and Parade. Students cheered proudly for our band, cheerleaders, football players, and the imaginative floats each grade level prepared.

Homecoming Courts

At Roanoke Rapids Early College, scholars embraced every moment, from the excitement of the game to the joy of the dance floor. The highlight was the crowning of the Roanoke Rapids Early College Homecoming Court with Homecoming Queen Kaydence Best and Homecoming King Elijah Thornton, First Runners-Up Hanna Warren and Noah Draughan, and Second Runners-Up Gabriella Smith and Jacob Allen.

Roanoke Rapids Early College Homecoming Court

Friday brought a meaningful moment as our Alumni and Friends gathered for a special baseball and softball alumni recognition reception in the RRHS Media Center. Later that evening, alumni lined up on the field before kickoff to be recognized, connecting the present with generations of Yellow Jackets who came before.

Prior to the beginning of the game, I was grateful for the opportunity to help our seniors and their families raise money for Project Graduation by participating in the annual Jail and Bail fundraiser. We thank everyone who was such a great sport and for all who donated.

Though the game ended with a tough loss to Hertford County, the pride in our students never dimmed. Our Roanoke Rapids High School Homecoming Court shone with elegance, and we congratulated

After the game, students filled the dance floor at a lively Homecoming Dance — a fitting close to a spirited week. A heartfelt thank you goes to Gary Edwards and Kelly Sparks for their tremendous efforts in making this celebration possible.

Spirit Across Elementary and Middle Schools

Our younger Yellow Jackets embraced the week with themed dress-up days:

Monday: Neon Day

Tuesday: Twin Tuesday

Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday

Thursday: Sports Day

Friday: School Spirit Day

From bright neon to mismatched socks and jerseys, our elementary students proved that school spirit starts early, and it is contagious!

A Special Thanks from Clara Hearne Pre-K

Even our youngest learners joined the fun. Clara Hearne Pre-Kindergarten Center welcomed a group of special guest readers who brought stories to life for our students. A huge thank you goes to Keri King, Allen Garrett, Tracy Story, Tammy Colston, Leigh Ann Brodsky, Krissy Martin, Ed Liverman, Christy Quintero, and Chick-fil-A for investing in our children’s joy and love for learning.

Looking Ahead: Your Voice Matters

As we close out this unforgettable Homecoming, we also look to the future. The RRGSD Calendar Committee is requesting parent and family feedback on the proposed 2026–2027 Traditional Calendar. 

We encourage you to review the draft calendars at https://www.rrgsd.org/live-feed#10044819 and complete the brief survey by Wednesday, October 1. Your input is vital to shaping a school year that works for our entire community.

Final Reflections

Homecoming 2025 was a powerful reminder of the pride, tradition, and community that define Roanoke Rapids. From colorful hallways to spirited parades, from alumni reunions to preschool storytime, every corner of our district radiated with connection and joy. Though the scoreboard did not go our way, the true victory was the unity we shared.

Let us carry this energy forward—not just for one week in September, but all year long. Together, we are the Yellow Jackets. #TogetherWeSucceed